Differences Between BPH and Prostate Cancer

Hearing “prostate problems” can be overwhelming, and the symptoms (frequent urination, weak stream, or nighttime bathroom trips) can be frustrating. 

It’s hard not to imagine the symptoms mean something serious, like prostate cancer. But they more likely indicate a noncancerous condition called BPH.

BPH and prostate cancer have similar symptoms but differ in cause, risk, and treatment. Our experts at Golden Gate Urology in Berkeley, California, break it down so you can feel confident taking the next steps.

What’s BPH?

Benign prostate hyperplasia (BPH) is the medical term for an enlarged prostate. It’s increasingly common as men get older — about half over 50 have some degree of BPH, and that number goes up with age.

An enlarged prostate can press against the urethra and affect urine flow. That’s why BPH symptoms often revolve around urination, including:

• A weak or interrupted urine stream
• Difficulty starting or stopping urination
• Frequent urination, especially at night
• Feeling like your bladder isn’t empty
• A sudden, urgent need to urinate

The key word here is benign. BPH isn’t cancerous, and it doesn’t lead to prostate cancer. Some research suggests it may even help protect against prostate cancer. 

BPH is primarily associated with aging and hormonal changes. The prostate keeps growing as you get older; for some men, that growth leads to bothersome symptoms.

What’s prostate cancer?

Prostate cancer occurs when cells in the prostate grow uncontrollably. It’s among the most common cancers affecting men and, thanks to better screening and treatment, one of the most treatable when caught early.

Signs of prostate cancer include:

• Difficulty urinating or a weak stream
• Blood in urine or semen
• Painful ejaculation
• Pelvic discomfort or pain
• Bone pain (in more advanced cases)

In its early stages, prostate cancer often doesn’t cause any symptoms. When it does, those symptoms can look a lot like BPH, which is why regular checkups and screenings are essential. 

Prostate cancer develops due to genetic mutations in prostate cells. Risk factors include age, family history, race (African American men are at higher risk), and lifestyle factors.

Diagnosing BPH and prostate cancer

If you’re having symptoms, we typically start with a digital rectal exam (DRE) to check the size and feel of your prostate and a PSA blood test to measure levels of prostate-specific antigen, which can increase with BPH and prostate cancer.

We may also order imaging tests or a biopsy to confirm or rule out cancer.

The good news? These tests are quick and provide the information needed to create a treatment plan or give you peace of mind.

Treating BPH and prostate cancer

BPH treatments range from watchful waiting to medications. In more severe cases, we may recommend minimally invasive procedures or surgery.

Prostate cancer treatment depends on the stage and aggressiveness of the cancer. It may include active surveillance, surgery (like a prostatectomy), radiation, hormone therapy, or other advanced treatments.

Schedule your evaluation

While BPH and prostate cancer can look similar, they’re different conditions with different risks and outcomes. If you’re dealing with urinary symptoms or want to stay on top of your prostate health, don’t put off an evaluation.

The earlier we see you, the sooner you know what’s going on and how to move forward.

Our Golden Gate Urology team offers compassionate care, clear answers, and personalized treatment plans. Call our friendly staff at 510-255-0013 or book your consultation online today.